3 UK introduces social networking oriented INQ1 handset

The first handset to feature seamless Facebook integration was officially announced by the UK carrier. Peculiarly called INQ1 it has a design much similar to Nokia N85 and a decent modest feature set.

In addition to the seamless integration to the world's most popular social networking website, the 3 INQ1 also offers last.fm, Skype and Windows Live Messenger integration. Furthermore the handset offers a worthy browsing experience thanks to the new integrated browser based on WebKit (think Symbian S60 or iPhone grade rendering).

Manufactured by Amoi, 3 INQ1 features a 2.2" QVGA display, capable of showing up to 262K colors, HSDPA 3.6 Mbps and a 3.2 MP camera. Having up to 50 MB of internal and 4GB of external memory (we guess they mean a card slot) the INQ1 should be able to host your whole collection of favorite tracks. An accelerometer is also included for automatic UI rotation.

3 UK have plans for several new phones after their Skype lineup, and they will all be branded as INQ (pronounced as 'ink', an abbreviation of 'inquire'). The new INQ1 is obviously the first to become available.

There is no official info on the pricing and availability of the INQ1, however there are some pretty credible rumors floating around. According to RegHardware.co.uk the INQ1 will be free on a 15GBP monthly contract with unlimited web, texts and 75 minutes of calls. You can also get it on pay-as-you-go basis for 80GBP (150 US dollars or 100 euro).

I had one of these in my hands today at the local 3 store and its a very nice little phone.
I was also informed that it will cost £79.99 inc. £10 airtime, they will also be opening a pre-order book on friday 28th november, the phone will be availab...

This device is a welcome move for popularising the use of mobile devices for mobile internet communication purposes. The 3 Network in the UK is to be commended for actively encouraging this, including among its pre-pay customers. £5.00 a month for fu...